Cigar Review: Leccia Tobacco White 446

It’s hard to believe Sam Leccia’s Leccia Tobacco outfit has only been around for about a year. I know many people who consider his Black and White blends to be regulars in their rotations, and the new Luchador series, a Mexican-wrapped smoke that debuted on Cinco de Mayo, is already making inroads (we’ll have a full review on Luchador shortly).

Before getting Leccia Tobacco off the ground, Leccia, formerly of Nub and Cain fame, couldn’t stay away from the industry any longer than he was legally obligated to. He originally tried to jump back in the business in 2011 with a Toraño-distributed brand called Debut, which prompted a lawsuit from Oliva and postponed his return until 2013.

With the conclusion of his non-compete agreement with the Oliva Cigar Co., his former employer, Leccia’s return was formally announced in April 2013, and last June he unveiled his new company at the IPCPR Trade Show. Its two inaugural blends—Black and White—are distributed by Toraño.

The Black is made in Nicaragua and features an Ecuadorian Habano wrapper, a Nicaraguan Rosado binder, and a filler blend of Dominican Ligero, Brazilian Mata Fina, and some fire-cured tobacco. White is made in the Dominican Republic with a Cameroon wrapper, Ecuadorian binder, and a filler blend that includes Pennsylvanian tobacco.

The White 446—also known as “Little Guy”—is about $7 and measures 4 inches long with a ring gauge of 46. The small cigar is dry, toothy, and nearly vein-free with pre-light notes of sweet caramel and milk chocolate. The cap, which seems hastily applied, clips cleanly enough to reveal an easy draw.

In my experience, this smaller format of the White blend is the spiciest. Whereas the larger Double Toro, Toro, or even Robusto have more of a doughy texture, the 446 is drier and more cedar-forward with background notes of roasted nuts, cream, coffee, and white pepper. The finish has a sweetness (almost marshmallow) that’s characteristic of Cameroon tobacco.

Construction is excellent with voluminous smoke production, a straight burn, solid ash, and smooth draw. But, as I’ve written before, the White blend burns quickly, so it’s advised to take your time to savor the flavor and keep the smoke from getting hot or harsh.

Looking for a mild- to medium-bodied stick that’s perfect for walking the dog, pairing with a morning cup of coffee, or fitting in during a lunch break? The Leccia Tobacco White 446 fits the bill. For its harmonious combination of flavors and solid value, this Little Guy earns four stogies out of five.

[To read more StogieGuys.com cigar reviews, please click here.]

–Patrick A

photo credit: Stogie Guys